- What is it for
- What properties
- How to use
- 1. Picão-Preto tea
- 2. Picão-preto gargles
- 3. Warm Black Pepper compresses
- Possible side effects
- Who should not use
Picão-preto is a medicinal plant, also popularly known as Picão, Pica-pica or Amor de mulher, used to treat inflammations, such as arthritis, sore throat or muscle pain, for example, due to its excellent anti-inflammatory properties.
Typically, Picão-preto grows in the warm regions of South America and, therefore, is very frequent in Brazil, especially in clean gardens, without toxic products and away from the streets. Picão-preto is a small plant with a dark green stem and slightly lighter leaves.
The scientific name of Picão-preto is Bidens pilosa and the plant can be bought in health food stores, street markets and some supermarkets.
What is it for
Picão-preto is used to help treat inflammations such as rheumatism, sore throat, tonsillitis, pharyngitis, hepatitis and menstrual cramps, for example.
In addition, Picão-preto can also be used to treat coughs, gastric ulcers, stomach pain in general, urinary tract infections and to keep blood sugar levels under control in the case of diabetes.
What properties
The properties of Picão-preto include its anti-inflammatory, diuretic, antioxidant and anti-diabetic action.
How to use
All parts of the Picão-preto plant can be used to make infusions that can be used for gargling or warm compresses.
1. Picão-Preto tea
Picão-Preto tea can be used to help treat stomach problems or hepatitis. To prepare tea, you need:
Ingredients
- Half a cup of tea of dried Black Pepper parts; Half a liter of water.
Method of preparation
Place ½ cup of dried plant parts in a pan with ½ liter of water and boil for 10 to 15 minutes. Filter the mixture and drink 1 cup 4 to 6 times a day.
2. Picão-preto gargles
Black pickle gargles are a great option for sore throat, tonsillitis or pharyngitis. To be used on these occasions, just prepare the infusion, let it cool until it is warm and gargle about 3 times a day.
3. Warm Black Pepper compresses
Warm compresses can help soothe situations of rheumatism and muscle pain. To prepare these compresses, simply prepare the infusion of Picão-Preto, let it cool until it is warm, dip compresses or clean gauze in the mixture and then apply on the painful joints or muscles.
Possible side effects
No side effects of Picão-preto are described, however, the plant should be used with caution and avoiding exceeding the daily doses recommended in the mode of use.
Who should not use
There are no contraindications for Picão-preto, however pregnant women, breastfeeding women and children should not use the plant without informing the obstetrician or pediatrician.
See other plants that also have anti-inflammatory properties.
